Avalanche forecast

Presidential Range

Mount Washington Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Wed
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 3 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Triggering an avalanche is unlikely, but not impossible, especially in steep terrain that faces north, east, or south. Watch out for areas of unstable snow in wind-protected areas such as under cliffs, rock outcroppings, and in tight snow gullies. Continue to make slope-specific assessments and use thoughtful travel techniques in avalanche terrain.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–2

    Wind slabs that are 1 - 2 feet in depth and formed from new snow and wind on 3/26 are still common on north-facing, and east-facing slopes. These slabs are becoming more stable and less likely to produce an avalanche. It is possible to find areas of less stable snow, especially below cliffs and steep ice, and in wind-sheltered terrain features. 

    Watch out for areas of softer, dry snow where boot penetration goes deeper into the snowpack, this could be an area of unstable snow. Make slope-specific assessments by digging down to assess snowpack structure and propagation potential.

Avalanche Discussion

The snowpack saw a full day of sun, low wind, and mild temperatures yesterday which greatly helped promote stabilization and bonding below the snow surface. Steep, south-facing aspects saw the most warming and snow surfaces became wet and moist, especially at middle elevations. In areas that experienced solar gain and warming yesterday, expect snow surfaces to be refrozen and hard. On non-solar aspects, especially at upper elevations, expect to find snow that is cold and dry. Wind slabs on these non-solar aspects will likely be smaller and thinner, but they may be more reactive than slabs on aspects that saw significant warming. 

Spring conditions are coming, but they are not here yet. Expect to encounter winter conditions in the Presidential Range and avalanche conditions that continue to be dynamic. 

The Lion Head Summer Trail is CLOSED due to increased avalanche hazard. The Lion Head Winter Route is OPEN and the most direct route to the Mount Washington Summit from Pinkham Notch. 

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